In a highly alarming development, billionaire entrepreneur and owner of the social media platform “X,” Elon Musk, recently hosted a live chat with Alice Weidel, co-leader of the far-right German party Alternative für Deutschland (AfD). This conversation was far from a casual encounter; it carried significant weight on multiple levels. By granting this extremist party direct digital access to a broader audience via his platform—especially in the tense run-up to Germany’s national elections in February—Musk delivered more than a simple statement of opinion. He effectively offered free publicity and an influential boost to the AfD’s anti-immigration agenda, which has already caused deep divisions in German society.
The AfD used this opportunity to position itself as a supposedly “rational” player in Germany’s political landscape, focusing on issues such as immigration, energy, and the economy. However, underneath this rhetoric lie extremist nationalist ideologies. Statements by the party’s leaders have repeatedly downplayed the atrocities committed during the Nazi era—an egregious violation of Germany’s historical memory and that of neighboring nations that suffered under Nazism.
What makes this event even more troubling is that Musk did not merely host the discussion; he explicitly supported the party’s platform, praising its ideas as “logical.” This endorsement is not a first: since acquiring “X” in late 2022, Musk has reinstated accounts belonging to neo-Nazi figures and influential far-right voices worldwide, fueling allegations that he is promoting hatred and disinformation.
Unsurprisingly, these actions have triggered intense backlash. European political leaders have voiced grave concerns over Musk’s growing sway in European politics, describing his support for extremist right-wing factions as a direct threat to democracy. Meanwhile, Musk’s posts endorsing the AfD have multiplied—he even referred to the party as Germany’s “last flame of hope,” openly criticizing mainstream political institutions and urging voters to back the AfD. He escalated this support by writing an article in the German newspaper Die Welt, defending the party’s co-leader and highlighting her relationship with a Sri Lankan partner as supposed evidence that the AfD is not “truly” extreme.
Accusations of Political Meddling
These moves have led to a flood of criticism. The European Commission accuses Musk of interfering in European politics and exploiting his platform to promote divisive agendas. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has also denounced Musk’s meddling in the German electoral process, stressing the need to disregard external interferences. Despite most Germans finding Musk’s involvement in their domestic affairs inappropriate, it is widely expected that his influence may help bolster the AfD’s standing in the upcoming elections.
Amid this escalation, the European Union has launched formal investigations into whether “X” is breaching Digital Services Act regulations, amid growing calls for stringent measures to protect democracy from foreign interference and extremist rhetoric. The situation is further complicated by Musk’s significant investments in Europe—including Tesla’s massive factory on the outskirts of Berlin—making him both an economic and political actor.
Still, the AfD remains a polarizing force in German politics. Its popularity has increased partly due to disillusionment with Chancellor Scholz’s coalition government and concerns over Germany’s commitments to the European Union and NATO. Yet the party remains under observation by domestic intelligence services because of suspected extremist tendencies. Critics assert that Musk’s vocal support may amplify these far-right ideologies, weakening political norms for which Europeans have already paid a steep price. The European Commission is closely scrutinizing whether “X” adheres to the Digital Services Act—particularly in curbing hate speech and misinformation.
Musk’s Global Political Footprint
Elon Musk wields immense influence through platforms like “X,” and in recent years, he has stood out for his alignment with global right-wing populist and conservative movements. His backing of the AfD mirrors similar forays into international politics:
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- Argentina: During the presidential race, Musk was an outspoken supporter of Javier Milei—dubbed the “Trump of South America.” Through “X,” Musk helped raise Milei’s profile and further his ideas.
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- France: Musk offered implicit backing for conservative commentators who share skepticism over immigration and progressive policies.
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- Brazil: Leftist President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has been a target of Musk’s criticisms. Lula’s opposition to neoliberalism and his focus on environmental protection run counter to Musk’s interests, particularly in Brazil’s mining sector—critical for Tesla’s battery production.
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- Britain: Musk has frequently attacked Labour Party leader Keir Starmer—who is known for moderate stances aimed at economic reform and social justice—while implicitly supporting right-wing populist figures.
Musk often speaks of “saving humanity,” whether through colonizing Mars with SpaceX or transitioning the world to clean energy via Tesla. Yet this self-ascribed “savior” complex serves as a veneer for entering realms far beyond technology—namely politics—where he appears to view himself as qualified to guide entire nations. Ironically, with his growing political interference, humanity may now require saving from Elon Musk himself.
